Chevalier's Mitragyna (Mitragyna chevalieri)

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Mitragyna chevalieri: Botanical Profile

The intriguing Mitragyna chevalieri contributes to the immense diversity of the botanical world. As a wild-growing tree specimen, it shares the characteristic traits of its genus, which typically include woody growth forms and uniquely arranged inflorescences.

Taxonomy

  • ∟ царство Plantae
  • ∟ division Tracheophytes (Vascular Plants)
  • ∟ subdivision Spermatophytes (Seed plants)
  • ∟ Angiosperms
  • ∟ mesangiosperms (Core angiosperms)
  • ∟ eudicots
  • ∟ asterids
  • ∟ order Gentianales
  • ∟ family Rubiaceae
  • ∟ subfamily Cinchonoideae
  • ∟ tribe Naucleeae
  • ∟ genus Mitragyna (Kratom)
  • ∟ species Mitragyna chevalieri (Chevalier's Mitragyna)

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Morphology

The morphology of Mitragyna chevalieri is characterized by features typical of the entire genus. The leaves are arranged oppositely on the branches and feature conspicuous stipules that often enclose the terminal buds before dropping off.

The flowers form dense, globose heads. Each individual flower has a tubular corolla from which the styles protrude prominently. The fruits mature into small capsules containing numerous light seeds that are dispersed by the wind into the surrounding area.

Interesting facts

The name of this species honors the French botanist Auguste Chevalier, renowned for his extensive scientific explorations in West and Central Africa during the early 20th century.

Geography of distribution

  • Angola
  • Benin
  • Cameroon
  • Central African Republic
  • DR Congo
  • Gabon
  • Ivory Coast
  • Nigeria

Sources

  • Plants of the World Online (POWO)
  • Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF)

Technical Information

External Databases: GBIF, POWO, Tropicos

See also